Michael Smith will start his World Darts Championship title defence on December 15 as the pre-Christmas schedule for the 2024 has been released.

Bully Boy sealed a maiden WDC win earlier this year at his third attempt over Michael van Gerwen with an exceptional performance at Alexandra Palace in a replay of the 2019 final.

Smith had also been defeated by Peter Wright at the same stage in 2022, but went World No 1 after beating Van Gerwen.

This time round, though, Smith will have to see off either Kevin Doets or Stowe Buntz in Round Two in the most eye-catching of four clashes, after the pair face off earlier in the day.

The second day will see the likes of Dave Chisnall take on the winner of Cameron Menzies and Rusty-Jake Rodiguez in the afternoon session, before Gary Anderson brings an end to the day’s play against either Simon Whitlock or Paolo Nebrida.